Demolition crews from Ortonville-based Bedrock Express began the process of bringing down the century-and-a-half-old structure in downtown Goodrich. The process may take a few weeks as about 95 percent of the materials recovered will be recycled.

Of historical interest in the community is the Goodrich House Apartments, which had been occupied by eight families until a fire ripped through the structure on Sept. 27, 2009. The 160-year-old structure was then abandoned until Oct. 2010 when a local resident purchased the property with the intent to repair the structure. However, work stalled on the project and earlier this year the village council voted to have the building demolished.

Since the fire, much of the roof was open and water had partially filled the basement.

According to the historical society, the Goodrich House was built by Mr. Haskins in 1846 and was the first tavern, post office and a popular spot for trading and salesmen. During the building’s 160 years, there were several owners including Ben Yerkey, the Cicote Brothers (famous for their baseball careers) and Emery Rockafellow. After the death of Rockafellow, the tavern was bought by S. M. Hegel.